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WBM march 2012
Dr. Semmel takes a different
approach.
“Most patients referred to my
office for TMD treatment have a
TMJ disc problem in which the disc
has slipped out of its proper position
or has developed a hole in it,”
he states. “These types of problems
can often be corrected by surgical
intervention.”
Overall, most treatments can be
pain free.
“We are using therapies that
are painless, pleasant and require
no drugs or needles,” Dr. Kuzma
adds. “These treatments use systems
and methods perfected in sports
medicine. We have been extensively
trained in these systems and methods.
This training, combined with
experience and technology, enables
us to effectively treat the cause
of the problem and not just the
symptoms.”
Although TMJ disorder is not
100-percent preventable, taking
precaution when involved in
potentially dangerous situations
can decrease the chance of developing
the disorder, such as wearing a
helmet and a facemask whenever
engaging in sports to help protect
the face, lower jaw and teeth, and
wearing a seatbelt in the event of an
automobile accident.
Also, having regular dental checkups
can notify patients if they are
on the way to developing harmful
conditions, which further decreases
chances of contracting TMD.
Younger patients can be referred
to an orthodontist to correct bite
problems and misalignment of
teeth. Addressing any concerns
that may develop in the early stages
after encountering trauma is also
important.
With the help of advanced technology
and natural practices, finding
a solution to this problem is
made easier.
“I teach my clients a self massage
that works on the muscles inside
and outside the mouth to add to
their daily routine,” Paterson says.
“It is so much easier to keep someone
healthy than to heal a disease
pattern.”